Machining Service:
Wire & Sinker EDM
Our reliable wire and sinker electrical discharge machining (EDM) services offer the following:
- Repeatability
- High Dimensional Tolerances
- Custom Prototypes and End-Use Parts
- Instant and Engineer-Assisted Quotes
- Certifications: ISO 9001:2015, AS9100D, and ITAR
- Instant and Engineer-Assisted Quotes
- Certifications: ISO 9001:2015, AS9100D, and ITAR
-
Instant and
Engineer-Assisted
Quotes - 100+ Materials
-
40+ Surface
Finishes -
Certifications:
ISO 9001:2015,
AS9100D, and ITAR -
In-House Services: 3D Printing,
CNC Machining, Urethane Casting,
and Sheet Metal Fabrication
Our Simple Process
Upload your project’s CAD file.
We review your file and provide design for manufacturability (DFM) feedback.
Once complete, it passes through quality control.
Our team ships your product anywhere in the USA.
What is wire and sinker EDM?
Wire and sinker EDM machining methods are utilized in modern manufacturing operations to produce precise, complex shapes in hard metals, such as hardened steel. They achieve a superior cut compared to traditional methods by passing an electrical discharge between the metal workpiece and a cutting tool, which erodes the metal into tiny particles.
Prototek is your premier electrical discharge machining manufacturer. Our experts specialize in high-quality custom parts and components, providing design assistance, consistent part quality, and rapid turnaround times. We partner with businesses to offer custom solutions for highly regulated industries and the precision engineering sector, including aerospace, automotive, and medical.
How does wire EDM work?
Our wire EDM machine shops utilize a thin, electrically charged wire to produce precise cuts in metals and other conductive materials. The process involves creating an electrical spark that melts the surface of the workpiece. A special fluid flows around the cutting area to remove the melted material. As the wire moves continuously, it creates a force that produces the final product in its desired form.
Since the wire never physically touches the workpiece, it eliminates the risks of distortions and burrs. This benefit results in high quality through excellent machining accuracy, intricate geometries, smooth surface finishes, and minimal stress. Wire EDM is also material efficient, with minimal material waste, reduced post-processing, and minimal human supervision.
Our reliable and accurate machining service is ideal for producing small, delicate components, precise prototypes, and low-volume production runs. Some typical applications include:
- Blanking punches, extrusion dies, and complex molds.
- High tolerance components for critical aircraft parts.
- Implantable devices and surgical equipment components.
- Engine parts, gearboxes, and precision components for vehicles
- Delicate parts for semiconductors and electronic fittings.
How does sinker EDM work?
Sinker EDM is a manufacturing process that uses a shaped electrode, usually made of graphite or copper. Placing this electrode in an electrically conductive fluid, along with the workpiece. An electrical charge flows between the two, creating sparks as the electrode is near the workpiece.
These sparks melt the surface material of the workpiece, and the fluid washes away the melted material. The electrode continues this process, shaping the workpiece until it is complete.
Prototek sinker EDM service allows you to machine complex shapes in challenging materials with superior precision and repeatability. Our machines can produce complex shapes, including blind cavities, deep ribs, and sharp internal corners. We deliver high-quality parts with minimal deformation and exceptional surface finishes, even on thin-walled components.
Our experts have decades of experience serving highly regulated industries. Some of the standard applications of our sinker EDM services include:
- Creating precise cavities, cores, and features for plastic injection dies and forging tools.
- Fabricating aircraft and spacecraft parts with strict dimensional accuracy and stability requirements.
- Producing delicate medical components, including cardiovascular devices, surgical instruments, and orthopedic implants.
What is the difference between wire & sinker EDM?
Wire EDM and sinker EDM are two types of electrical discharge machining (EDM) processes. The primary difference is that wire EDM utilizes a thin wire as the electrode to cut through the workpiece, whereas sinker EDM employs a shaped electrode to form the desired shape in the workpiece.
Wire EDM is well-suited for cutting intricate shapes and parts that require tight tolerances. Sinker EDM is more effective for creating deeper cavities and complicated shapes in larger workpieces. Another key difference is that wire EDM keeps a constant gap between the electrode and the workpiece. In contrast, sinker EDM submerges the electrode in a dielectric fluid to cool it and wash away debris.
Both processes have their advantages and limitations. Choosing between them depends on the job’s specific requirements.
EDM Capabilities at Prototek
OEM:
Fanuc and Sodick
Lead Time:
5 – 22 Days
Max Dimensions:
31.5 x 23.6 x 31.5 in thick
Material:
Aluminum, Inconel, Stainless Steel and Steel, Titanium, and Other Materials
Prototek's Machining Materials
Prototek offers a wide range of materials for both wire and sinker EDM applications. Our extensive inventory includes high-performance alloys and specialty metals to meet the most demanding specifications. Whether you require precision parts or complex geometries, our team of experts can help you select the optimal material solution for your project.
Metals
Plastics
Other Materials
- G-10
- Machined Ceramics:
- Macor
- Wood
Does your project require a different material?
If you can’t find a specific material in our listings, we can source it for your project. Please submit a request, and we will respond with a customized quote.
Wire & Sinker EDM Finishes
The standard finishing and post-processing techniques for EDM parts include:
- Deburring: This process involves removing any sharp edges or burrs that remain after the EDM process.
- Polishing: This technique improves the surface finish and reduces roughness through mechanical polishing.
- Plating: A thin protective metal coating enhances corrosion resistance or improves appearance.
- Heat treatment enhances the component’s hardness, strength, or other properties.
- Passivation: This involves forming a protective oxide layer to prevent corrosion.
These techniques help ensure that EDM parts meet the required specifications and performance standards.
Advantages of Electric Discharge Machining vs. Conventional Machining
Electric discharge machining (EDM) and conventional machining are two distinct manufacturing methods, each with its own benefits and applications. EDM stands out for its ability to create detailed and complex shapes, compared to traditional machining methods that focus on size and material flexibility.
Some of the benefits of EDM machining include:
- Unmatched machining capabilities: This method enables you to machine tough materials and create highly intricate and complex shapes, holes, and undercuts with precision and accuracy.
- Precision and quality: EDM is highly accurate, capable of achieving tight tolerances, and creates a uniform and smooth surface finish with no directional marks or burrs.
- Non-stress process: This is a non-contact process that enables the machining of both hard metals and delicate sections without inducing mechanical stress or thermal deformation.
When selecting a manufacturing method, consider key factors such as the part’s complexity, the material, and your production requirements. Contact our team if you have questions about the best options for your project!
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Prototek's
Other CNC Manufacturing Capabilities
Why choose Prototek for your wire and sinker EDM project?
Prototek offers reliable wire and sinker EDM services, delivering high-quality results. Our skilled technicians utilize advanced equipment to make precise cuts, ensuring that the final product meets your exact specifications. We offer fast turnaround times, allowing you to stay on schedule.
We understand that every project is unique, so we offer tailored solutions, whether you need a prototype or a small to large-scale production. Our team will meet your needs and deliver exceptional customer service.
Get Started Today. Prototek’s focus on quality EDM services and customer satisfaction makes us the best choice for your project. Please request a quote or contact our team online to learn more about our extensive machining solutions.